Silverstone would consider rebel GP

British Racing Drivers' Club chairman Robert Brooks has confirmed Silverstone would consider hosting a grand prix for the breakaway series.

Formula One was on Thursday night rocked to its foundations when the eight members of Formula One Teams' Association announced they are to split from the sport and set up a rival organisation.

Speaking prior to FOTA's announcement, Brooks said: "We're a business, and if there was another race we would have to consider it, but we are very much part of the (Formula One) family."

Such a series would involve racing at circuits currently not used by F1, and that could include Silverstone as the venue stages the last British Grand Prix of its contract this weekend.

The Northamptonshire track would certainly come into consideration should the rival formula manage to get off the ground.

When asked about the prospects of such a race taking place at the circuit, which is owned by the BRDC, Brooks acknowledged it was viable.

Highlighting Silverstone's positive points, even though the circuit has long been criticised by F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone, Brooks added: "I admit we're not up with some of the Arab circuits.

"But this is still a pretty good set-up, in pretty good shape. It's profitable, run well, has a capacity crowd, people like it, teams like it, drivers like it. It's a successful grand prix.

"I've heard people say we're in the top bracket of the European circuits, some would say the middle bracket, but I've never ever heard anyone say we're in the bottom bracket.

"I would say that right now the circuit is in the best nick I've seen it, and we will have a sell-out capacity crowd this weekend."